I second the amendment to the Order of Business proposed by my party leader, Senator Labhrás Ó Murchú. It is a matter of urgency that we debate the issues he so eloquently outlined, particularly but not only coming up to Christmas.

I join colleagues in welcoming the Government's humanitarian assistance scheme announced this morning. Senator Marie Moloney has outlined the areas to be covered by the scheme. The last time the Government announced such a programme, however, it was a total farce. It was not easily accessible by those who needed the aid most. It was almost impossible for them to adhere to the conditions set out. I appeal to the Leader to impress upon the Government the urgency of this scheme and the need to make it user friendly on this occasion. The unfortunate people concerned need the money now, not when and if they are lucky enough to get through the hoops created by the Department. If they manage to get through these hoops, it will be six or eight months down the road that they receive financial aid. That is not good enough.

Like others, I pay tribute to the emergency services and the volunteers involved, as outlined by my colleague, Senator Michael Mullins. It is high time and high tide we had an urgent debate on flooding and whatever proposals the Government has to advance the flood relief plans in place.